Photography on Canvas: Addressing Concerns

For those of you who are new to the concept of photography on canvas, it is a contemporary art form that will likely be seen more and more in modern art galleries and perhaps even in museums. The media is very avant garde and stunning. It is the result of an impressive combination of digital photography and traditional, artistic canvas. However, the procedure is very simple. A professional, digital photograph is taken of a landscape, person or other object and through the use of computer technology it is transferred onto a professional artists' canvas. The result is a stunning piece of artwork with definition and detailing as precise as if done solely by hand. Photography on canvas is available in both full, vibrant color or in classic black and white.

Perhaps because of the newness of this artistic work, concerns are frequently expressed as to the durability, validity and longevity of photography on canvas. It comes as no surprise that this is the case since the introduction of innovative art has almost always been met with criticism. Consider some of the pieces that have caused quite a stir in modern times. Victor-Hugo Vaca II continues to cause much controversy in the art world with the bizarre and sexual nature of many of his paintings.

So far as durability goes with photography on canvas, a printed canvas is as sturdy and strong as any
artwork on canvas and perhaps more so. The work is nowhere near as vulnerable to handling as oil or acrylic paintings. It is impossible to accidentally smudge a downloaded picture on canvas. Unlike sculpture it cannot break. Since the subject matter belongs entirely to the purchaser it does not have to be controversial.

Longevity, along with durability is another issue regarding photography on canvas, yet needlessly so. This type of media doesn't fade easily. It is even possible to place the artwork outside of one's home and assuming the owner of the canvas doesn't live in extreme climates, it will not become damaged for a number of years as long as it is kept out of the direct sunlight this being said photos printed on canvas and sealed with water resistant sealers can last several years out side. With the exception of stone carvings and architecture, this is definitely a first in art history!

People may wonder "but is it art?" Just as the critics were divided in their opinions about the works of such masters as Nadir Afonso, Edward Allington and Oscar Araripe, beauty and credibility is in the eye of the beholder. The Art Gallery of Ontario, Toronto (AGO) actually has a piece of work on display that features a bathroom sink and a plank of wood. By someone's estimation this cryptic piece belongs in the famous gallery, although public reception to it quite understandably is highly skeptical. And that perfectly demonstrates the conflict as to what defines art and what does not. Perhaps it would be wise to see photography on canvas before forming an opinion about the validity of this unique art form. It is well worth the assessment.